I think it is fine to give something from a thrift shop. Unless the person is so choosy, then I would not give this person any gifts. I won't bother to do it.
I do not want to be a scrooge, but I feel the same way. Half of the things you find at thrift stores are just like new! What are they going to do? Are they going to use a magnifying glass?
Yes, I think there is nothing wrong if you give a gift to someone from the thrift store especially if it is still a brand new or very rare item from a souvenir shop that you can find only from the thrift shop. Sometimes you know an item that you know someone who likes like those long-playing songs or uniform and a lot more. As long as it is looking good and not old I think the person you will give it to will appreciate it especially if it is a one-of-a-kind item that you cannot just find in any regular store.
I would absolutely buy a gift from the thrift shop if I knew the person I'm giving the gift to would like it. I've been actually looking for LP records that my dad would like. We've bought some already because there are thrift shops online.
I don't mean to seem gloomy, but I share your sentiments. At secondhand shops, half of the items are practically brand new! How will they proceed? Will they make use of a magnifying glass?
Only if you make absolutely sure that the friend knows it. A nice gift carefully wrapped should not show its origin, unless you want to show off a brand name. I have bought several items from thrift stores, and at no time did the receiver suspect where the gift came from.
I think it depends on the gift and the person. If I know the person well and I think they would appreciate a thrift store gift, then I would be open to giving them one. However, if I'm not sure if the person would appreciate it, then I would probably opt for something else.